How to Replace a Circuit Breaker

Circuit breakers protect the electrical circuits in your home by stopping the flow of electricity if there's an overload or other electrical fault.

Circuit breakers last a long time so you should check your other options before deciding that issue is a faulty breaker. The breaker may need to be replaced if it trips very easily, doesn't trip when it should, can't be reset, is hot to the touch, or looks or smells burnt [sources: Acme How To, Relectric]. If you can't figure out the underlying issue or don't feel knowledgeable or experienced enough to do the repair yourself, call a professional electrician. Working with electricity is dangerous, and it's better to be safe than sorry.

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When replacing a circuit breaker, you will need:

New circuit breaker (same brand, make, model and size as the one you're removing)

Rubber mat or plywood to stand on (this insulates you against electrical shock)